Rachelle Borja, the director of support services at Guam Regional Medical City (GRMC), has been awarded the 2025 Region 10 Emerging Regional Leader Award by the American Society for Health Care Engineering (ASHE). This prestigious recognition honors one individual from each of ASHE’s ten regions for their exceptional leadership, commitment to their community, and dedication to the health care profession.
GRMC highlighted that Borja’s achievement not only reflects her personal accomplishments but also emphasizes the institution’s ongoing dedication to excellence in health care engineering and facilities management. The awards ceremony took place during the ASHE Health Care Facilities Innovation Conference held in Columbus, Ohio, from July 27 to 30, 2025.
As part of her recognition, Borja has received an invitation to attend the ASHE Leadership Institute on November 7 and 8, 2025, in Phoenix, Arizona. This event will gather leaders from across the nation to discuss advancements in health care facilities management, further supporting ASHE’s mission to cultivate the next generation of leaders in the field.
“Rachelle’s dedication, professionalism, and leadership have consistently elevated GRMC’s facilities operations to the highest standard,” stated Dr. Alexander “Beau” Wielaard, CEO of GRMC. He added that this recognition is a testament to her unwavering commitment to the hospital and the broader mission of health care excellence in the region.
Borja’s nomination was initiated by GRMC’s local chapter, the Hawaii Society of Healthcare Engineering, under the leadership of president Jessica Onaga. Key letters of recommendation came from David Jimenez of Johnson Controls Inc., Dr. Wielaard, and Bernie Lobaton, GRMC’s chief support services officer.
“Rachelle’s recognition by ASHE is a proud moment not just for GRMC, but for our entire Support Services team,” said Lobaton. He emphasized Borja’s exceptional leadership and dedication, which are vital in managing the complex operations that ensure the hospital runs safely and efficiently.
Borja began her career with GRMC as a contract specialist in the materials management department. She quickly advanced through several leadership roles, including warehouse manager and materials management assistant manager. With over 16 years of experience in supply chain and procurement across various sectors including telecommunications, federal contracting, and health care, she transitioned into emergency management in 2021. This role sparked her passion for safety, preparedness, and resiliency.
In 2024, Borja was appointed director of support services, where she now oversees compliance in the environment of care, emergency management, life safety, safety and security, as well as logistics and transportation operations. Her behind-the-scenes efforts help to ensure that the hospital’s infrastructure effectively supports patient safety, comfort, and care efficiency at every level.
The impact of Borja’s work at GRMC highlights the essential role that effective health care engineering plays in providing quality medical services to the community. Her recognition by ASHE not only elevates her profile but also enhances GRMC’s reputation as a leader in health care facilities management.
